Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is often touted as the most underrated candidate in the NBA GOAT debate. The Los Angeles Lakers legend’s iconic sky hook was not just beautiful to the eye; it was arguably unstoppable as well, given his height, size, and skill set. Abdul-Jabbar has inspired many, not just in basketball, but also as a strong voice against social injustice. Even though Kareem has been retired for decades now, he is still loved by fans around the world and respected by the basketball fraternity, which was on full display on his 76th birthday.

Abdul-Jabbar has made a lot of headlines for his hot takes on pressing national issues, dividing his fanbase based on their political affiliations. But the NBA fraternity seemed united in their love for the Captain on his special day.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recalls the ‘good ol’ days’

Born on April 16, 1947, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recently celebrated his 76th birthday. Many fans and NBA stars sent their birthday wishes to the six-time NBA champion, including NBA legends like Magic Johnson and Isiah Thomas. Johnson shared a throwback image of the two in Lakers uniform, along with a much more recent image and a heartfelt birthday message via Twitter. He wrote, “Happy birthday to the Captain Kareem Abdul-Jabbar!!” 

The official Twitter handle of the Los Angeles Lakers also wished Abdul-Jabbar a very happy birthday. The 19-time NBA All-Star shared the post on Twitter with an emotional message. Abdul-Jabbar wrote, “This picture reminds me of the good ol’ days looking back and thinking about Showtime Lakers. What a journey it has been so far..appreciate all the love and support”

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The Hall of Famer thanked everyone for their wishes and reminisced about the Showtime Lakers. Abdul-Jabbar was a huge part of that iconic Lakers team even though their style of play did not suit him best. The Showtime Lakers’ core philosophy was to play quick and fast break whenever there was an opportunity. Magic’s dribbling and flashy passing abilities were on full display and the fans loved every bit of it.

Even though this resulted in fewer post-up plays for Abdul-Jabbar, he was not worried. The iconic center was still dominant whenever he had the chance and whenever the team needed him.

Isiah Thomas showed his respect

Detroit Pistons legend Isiah Thomas had a huge rivalry against the Lakers during his playing career. Notably, Thomas and the Pistons lost the 1988 NBA Finals against Abdul-Jabbar and the Lakers. The loss is still fresh in the mind of one of Thomas’ teammates who recently talked about it and said the Pistons were “cheated in 1988”.

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Thomas then avenged the loss by sweeping the Lakers in the 1989 NBA Finals, winning his first ring. However, that did not stop him from showing his respect to Kareem. The Hall of Famer tweeted NBA History’s birthday wish for Abdul-Jabbar.